The collapse of reading and it's consequences

Information

In partnership with Scottish Book Trust

According to data, global IQ scores started dropping in the 21st century, with experts pointing the finger at a similar drop in reading levels and a shift towards skim-reading on screens. Half of UK adults apparently gave up reading for pleasure post-2015, with children and young people right behind them. In Scotland, up to 30% of secondary students are reading two or more years below their age level. Are the experts right and, if so, what are the implications of a less literate and less reflective public unable to devote deep, sustained focus on reading? Does it make them more vulnerable to misinformation and less capable of meaningful democratic participation?

Panellists:

Sarah McGeown is Professor of Literacy (Psychology & Education) and Director of the Literacy Lab at the University of Edinburgh. Her research focuses on enhancing reading enjoyment and engagement, and enriching lives through literacy. She is the co-author of a report called The Future of Books and Reading that highlights the decline in reading popularity and explores the importance of books with recommendations to reverse the decline.

Marc Lambert is CEO with Scottish Book Trust. He studied history at the University of Edinburgh, graduating with an MA Hons and worked for Waterstones as a main fiction buyer, then for Penguin Books in Italy and the UK. After four years interpreting contemporary art at The Fruitmarket Gallery, Edinburgh, he joined The Edinburgh International Book Festival, becoming the Assistant Director and has edited many volumes of poems, essays and translations.